Best Road Tunnels to Visit in the USA

The United States is a country that boasts countless wonders along its highways and roads. From spectacular landscapes to impressive engineering achievements that challenge the natural geography, traveling its roadways can become an unforgettable experience. Among these remarkable features are tunnels, structures that not only connect regions but also represent extraordinary technical and architectural accomplishments.

Some cut through towering mountain ranges, while others pass beneath rivers, bays, and major urban centers. In this article, we will explore some of the most impressive tunnels in the United States, their unique characteristics, and the fascinating details that make them true highlights of the nation’s road network.

Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel, Utah

A vital section of State Route 9 that passes through Zion National Park in southern Utah, the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel was completed in 1930 and was the longest tunnel of its kind in the United States at the time. Today, it remains one of the most scenic attractions within the national park.

The tunnel features six large windows that allow natural light and ventilation while offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as visitors drive through. Standard passenger vehicles can travel through the tunnel without restrictions, while larger vehicles must be escorted. Drivers are advised to proceed slowly, pay attention to park rangers and pedestrians, and avoid stopping inside the tunnel.

Wawona Tunnel, California

Located in Yosemite National Park, the Wawona Tunnel provides access to Yosemite Valley from the south. Measuring 4,233 feet in length, it is the longest highway tunnel in California. The tunnel leads to one of the most photographed viewpoints in the world and serves as a popular destination for scenic road trips.

The lowest point of the tunnel ceiling along the outside curb measures 10 feet 2 inches (3.10 meters), while the curb height on the Yosemite Valley exit side reaches 13 feet 6 inches (4.11 meters).

Nada Tunnel, Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Located in Powell County, Kentucky, the Nada Tunnel is a one-lane tunnel that serves as the gateway to the Red River Gorge Geological Area within Daniel Boone National Forest. Stretching 900 feet (274 meters), it was constructed between 1910 and 1911 by the Dana Lumber Company to transport timber to a nearby sawmill.

Originally built with a height and width of 12 feet (3.6 meters), the tunnel was later enlarged to a height of 13 feet (3.9 meters) after a train became stuck inside.

Local legends suggest that the tunnel may be haunted. According to the stories, a construction worker died when a dynamite charge accidentally exploded. Some visitors claim to have seen a mysterious green orb near the entrance and report hearing strange noises while passing through the tunnel.

Hugh L. Carey Tunnel, New York

This two-tube, four-lane tunnel in New York was completed in 1950 at a cost of $90 million. Originally known as the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, it was renamed in 2012 in honor of former New York Governor Hugh Carey.

Today, the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel is the longest continuous underwater vehicular tunnel in the United States, connecting New York City’s Financial District with southern Brooklyn. The tunnel features four ventilation buildings capable of completely refreshing the air inside every 90 seconds.

Snoqualmie Tunnel, Washington

The Snoqualmie Tunnel cuts through the majestic Cascade Range in Washington State and is one of the longest multi-use pedestrian and bicycle tunnels in the world.

Constructed between 1912 and 1914 as part of a railway line connecting Seattle and Chicago, it carried its last train in 1980. The state later acquired the tunnel and converted it into a recreational trail.

Aside from a slight curve near the entrance, the tunnel extends in a straight line for 2.3 miles (3.6 kilometers). Upon reaching the western entrance, visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and Granite Mountain.

Needles Eye Tunnel, South Dakota

Located within Custer State Park, the Needles Eye Tunnel is part of the scenic Needles Highway. Both the tunnel and the roadway have become favorite destinations for photographers, motorcyclists, and hiking enthusiasts.

The area is especially beautiful during autumn, when colorful foliage contrasts with the canyon’s dramatic rock formations, creating breathtaking scenery and exceptional photographic opportunities.

Red Arch Road Tunnel, Bryce Canyon, Utah

The Red Arch Road Tunnel is located along Scenic Byway 12 on the way to Bryce Canyon National Park, a few miles east of U.S. Highway 89 near Panguitch, Utah. Built in 1925 as part of an effort to improve access to what is now Bryce Canyon National Park, it remains one of the most remarkable roadway features in the United States.

The red, orange, and white rock formations surrounding the tunnel provide visitors with spectacular views. The tunnel offers a clearance height of 13.5 feet (4.1 meters) and a maximum width of 8.5 feet (2.6 meters). Nearby, the rim of Bryce Canyon sits at elevations ranging from 7,900 to 8,900 feet (2,400 to 2,700 meters) above sea level.